10 - Coal of a Hero

         By my title, you may already be guessing where I am now and what I am doing. Yes, we have been assigned to another activity. Yes, I am sitting in a room full of computers and fellow block mates. And yes, this doesn't really keep up with the theme my blog has, but I may get some enjoyment out of it yet.
         I am facing the whiteboard instructing us to ponder and write about what makes someone a hero. It is not an uncommon question. In all probability, my answer would look like all the other replies other people have given. But hey, maybe a bit of "Justin element" would show up in this post.
     

         A hero, what is a hero? Someone who does something noble? Someone who is recognized? Wait, no, most of the time heroes are unsung. Does he/she have to fight physically? Should they even be good? Should would, could. With this so many required qualifications, it's a wonder heroes are even recognized. What should a hero be, even in the least of criteria? The Writer believes that there are only a few criteria for somebody to be named.

         First if all, a hero doesn't have to be somebody brilliant or somebody so learned in a professional field. Sure we can see Jose Rizal, who wrote beautiful and meaningful works. One can also see Juan Luna, who was a hard-driven general, brilliant tactician, and had varying degrees of success in his time as a commander against the Americans. There are also spirited and passionate leaders like Andres Bonifacio, who created their the "Himagsikang Pilipino" despite all odds. Yet, a hero need not possess these qualities. A hero could only do his/her simple ways. Someone oustanding can do so in the eyes of God; rising above the common man doesn't necessarily make one a hero.

        Next, one doesn't become a hero merely because of recognition. This is quite a misconception, for many people think in this sequence: One, do something good; two, get recognized; three: become a hero. The second and third steps should actually switch places. Remember, there some saints don't even get canonized and popularized.

        Finally, fighting with force is not required. Jose Rizal, "Tandang Sora," Jose del Pilar, and many other writers proved that. Even inventors such as Nikola Tesla (who was only recognized after a long time) were eventually declared heroes. Military histories do not always determine a hero. Sometimes, a life of persistent work is all that is needed.

        Did my point get across to the reader? Being a hero is simpler than most individuals imagine. You don't have to be somebody professional or sophisticated. A savior would never need to praised. Finally, being a hero isn't something spontaneous, rather, it is a product of a long and arduous path. So, did that just convince you of becoming more of a hero or did I do just the opposite?